In this article, we will take a look at the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
From womb to tomb, the only domestic group that is permanent and intimate to us with whom we interact every day and is available wherever we go, when we face challenges and struggles in life; whom can we talk and listen to; who motivates and supports you to achieve your goals or dreams in life, and lastly, a group of people that are so proud of your accomplishments is a family. It is the ideal definition and characteristic of a family in social norms within society.
According to sociologists, the family is the smallest, basic, and most social unit of society. It is the primary group of society where a child or individual establishes their character, encompassing traits, characteristics, attributes, and attitudes. Moreover, a family is an immediate group that provides guidance, supports their growth through access to education and healthcare, and fights for their rights when abused or exploited. The mentioned needs or obligations are essential in building the psycho-social makeup of an individual to be functional in society.
A family is connected by blood, marriage, or, in some cases, adoption, which consists of a father, mother, and children, and some societies with a collectivist culture include other near and distant relatives, namely, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws. Furthermore, scholars and experts in the fields of sociology, psychology, and politics introduce and define societies that reflect or possess the value or characteristic of the term “family-oriented.” The two cultures that are greatly associated with the term “family-oriented” are the individualistic and collectivist cultures.
Throughout history, collectivist and individualistic traits have been passed down by the ancestors to hundreds of generations repeatedly. Most Western societies, such as the United States of America, Canada, Germany, Mexico, and so on, possess the characteristics of being individualistic, which later became part of their traditions, beliefs, and norms. An individualistic culture refers to independent individuals; it emphasizes the needs and desires of their self-interest over those of the group and the relationship’s interests. Additionally, they value independence, self-sufficiency, and being competitive and have great motivation and importance for personal achievement. They also value individual choice, liberation or personal freedom, autonomy, and self-actualization. Possessing an individualistic trait leads them to believe in themselves only and realize they should cultivate themselves with their judgment, regardless of the pressure set by society.
In contrast to individualistic culture, collectivist culture is evident and present in Eastern societies, such as countries in Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. They value and emphasize the cohesiveness among individuals and the prioritization of the group over the self. Moreover, they tend to develop empathy. The needs and goals of the people involved in a certain group were being considered. They give significance to interconnectedness and consideration between people and usually play a central role in a person’s identity. Communication is also part of the indirect form to avoid potential disputes or conflicts, such as embarrassment. Collectivist people have the characteristic of listening and openly deciding what is best for the group. In case you are wondering why we include these two concepts, it is because the term “family-oriented” is being reflected and associated with the culture of each society. Thus, by defining and analyzing these two concepts, it is evident that the collectivist culture has a relationship to the term “family-oriented.
The term “family-oriented” refers to someone who cares deeply about each family member. They make sure that they are heard, considered, and listened to. Moreover, they are often involved in or influenced by the decision-making of a member. Accurately, some countries have this culture that, after finishing their obligation as primary caregivers, or simply known as parents, they will not provide any more support or with less care. In general, the definition of family-oriented means putting their family members and loved ones first. They tend to focus on family values that draw strength and motivation, which heavily influence the decision-making process.
Referring to your family as being family-oriented is more than you imagine in simply loving your family. It has more depth, which it defines as a state of being. For people who are family-oriented. It is part of their personal family life and culture. It is their way of living. Having a collectivist culture has an impact on the characteristic of being family-oriented. If you are carefully analyzing, most Western societies have an individualistic culture that allows their offspring to act independently; meanwhile, eastern societies, which presently possess a collectivist culture, tend to be family-oriented.
To delve deeper into what it means to be “family-oriented,” some common signs that indicate you or your family prioritize family bonds include quality time. Families cherish the time spent together, emphasizing the significance of their close relationships during these moments. Next is shared activities. Showing appreciation for relationships through shared activities like dining together and enjoying movies as a family. Additionally, communication plays a huge role. Keeping in touch with relatives through phone calls and organizing reunions to strengthen the bonds between family members. Another sign that your family is “family-oriented” is when you support each other in tough times. When facing financial challenges, families can turn to their relatives for assistance, showcasing the care they have for one another. A great example of executing family-oriented characteristics is the Filipinos. They held reunions and allowed their relatives to live in the same compound or even live in big ancestral houses.
One of the factors that allow individuals to weaken their family ties is the risk of raising a family due to stability in relationships and finances. The main factors that contribute to the weakened family ties that influence the qualities of being family-oriented are happiness, safety, cost of living, access to education and healthcare, time, and so forth. The researchers would like to emphasize that the quality of the least family-oriented family should not be viewed negatively as it relies on the culture of the family itself. The readers should consider the causes, risks, and reasons for defining a country that is least family-oriented.
Nevertheless, this article gives an overview of what is family-oriented and its qualities. Together with the touch of two types of culture that influence the norms of having a family, likewise, the purpose of this article is to inform the countries with the least family-oriented quality. As we mentioned earlier, this will highlight the countries with individualistic cultures and the impact of globalization and modernization on family dynamics.
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Our Methodology
In formulating this article, the researchers meticulously researched statistics or data that will show the countries with the least family-oriented characteristics. Additionally, there is only one primary criterion to be considered in the list, and that country should have garnered a low rating in terms of people’s worldview and value of family ties. Furthermore, a country can be considered individualistic if it possesses a lower birthrate and happiness index. The researchers will also consider the perspective of society towards establishing a family. The factors that will measure the perspective of a certain society will be the self-interest of an individual, the risk of access to healthcare and education for their children, career risks, etc.
You can also check out our article on the 25 Dumbest Cities in America to discover which cities are considered less intelligent in the USA, and also visit our 25 Least Hygienic Countries in the World article to gain insights into countries with lower hygiene standards.
25 Least Family-Oriented Countries in the World
25. Hungary
Along with the survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, results show that Hungary weakened its family ties, links, and bonds by 59%, with the highest rate among all countries, which is Indonesia, which has the strongest ties, bonds, and links. This may be due to the changes in family dynamics influenced by career advancement, individual growth, self-interest, etc.
24. Tunisia
Tunisia is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world. This is due to a survey and research conducted by the Pew Research Center. The family dynamics changed as a result of the influence of globalization. The impact of globalization has changed and influenced some of the traits of the country’s culture, which affect the family dynamic, fertility rate, and family-oriented quality of the Tunisian family.
23. Greece
In Greece’s history, the most important foundation in society is family, which emphasizes that families are the ones who should provide emotional and economic support to the individual. Meanwhile, in recent years, Greek families have become smaller. The fertility rate declines, which explains the impact of globalization and modernization when women become empowered and prioritize themselves in areas such as education, career advancement, and individual growth.
22. Poland
It might be surprising that Poland is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world. The Polish culture values collectivism over individualism, though it is changing nowadays. It was stated in the Pew Research Center that family ties were weakened, as indicated in the data that it weakens by 67%.
21. Argentina
According to various references, Argentina is the most individualistic country among all Latin countries. The reason behind this is the division between private and work life; however, they said that there are collectivist traits in Argentine people. Particularly the obligation towards the extended family. Argentina is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world because the most common families in Argentina are individualistic.
20. Ireland
For most Irish people, the basic unit of society plays a major role in their daily lives. In the past, extended family or distant relatives were essential to Irish society. They would live near each other, but as modernization continues to change the perspective of the people, especially the family dynamics, The Irish family and the extended family have less in common. Furthermore, the Irish parents emphasized the parenting style of democracy, which depicts the individualistic culture of the country.
19. Sweden
At individual and country levels, we find strong support that individualism reduces family ties and bonds. Very much to the country of Sweden, as they value independence. They heavily impose on the happiness and self-interest of an individual, including growth, advancement, and achievements. This put Sweden on the list of the 25 least family-ordered countries in the world.
18. Israel
We all know Israel has security issues leading to a decline in the fertility rate. This has had a huge impact on family ties and bonds. The decline in the fertility rate has to do with the risk of such factors in the family dynamics affecting the culture; because of the security issues, Israel is considered among the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
17. Spain
Spain is considered to have the lowest birth rate in 2023. The reason behind this is the increase in costs for other commodities or children’s quality. He stated that fertility declines due to a rise in the costs of children and a change in the attitude of the couple toward smaller family sizes.
16. Bulgaria
It is very important to note that the concept of being “family-oriented” varies from culture to culture, and it’s not accurate to label an entire country as being “least family-oriented.” However, in some instances, countries may have social or economic factors that could influence family dynamics, which leads to perceiving them as least family-oriented. Bulgaria is considered as it dictates that they have low scores in safety, happiness, cost, health, and time index in the measured variable of Raising a Family Index.
15. Norway
Countries such as Norway have small families. The reason behind this small unit is because of the cost of living. People consider the risks and factors involved in establishing or building a family. They considered food, shelter, and the needs and wants of the family. This would make it the least family-oriented country because some people are obligated to support and provide for the needs of distant and close family. This country makes the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
14. Canada
Canada is one of the 25 least family-oriented countries as globalization continues to influence certain cultures. Before, the tradition of a family was that a father provided the needs and was the head of the household, while the mother acted as a homemaker and supported the needs of the family. The sudden changes to the perspective of being a traditional family have to do with this. Nowadays, female empowerment arises when the average woman is educated and empowered to make life-free choices freely and with family, resulting in a decrease in birth rates and insufficient maintenance of family relationships.
13. Italy
The geography of the family in the western area has been characterized by relatively weak family links. The reason behind this is the deep historical roots that many have characterized European families for centuries. The practices and style of parenting lie in the family-oriented nature of a family. Therefore, Italy is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
12. Denmark
Denmark is considered to have an individualistic culture as it shows the parenting style of the Danish parents. The most common parenting approach is very democratic, where parents allow their children to play freely and independently. This is a huge factor in the character of a child because a child can grow as individualistic. The practices of parents toward their children, such as prioritizing independence, open communication, and fostering a sense of responsibility, will contribute to the least family-oriented quality. Thus, Denmark is included in the list.
11. Belarus
Belarus is included in the list of 25 least family-oriented countries in the world, as it is placed second among the countries with the highest divorce rates in the world. The divorce rate comes into play as a factor in contributing to the least family-oriented characteristic. This complex matter is influenced by numerous factors, which are easier to process legally in many cases, causing family fragmentation. The stigma that relates to this is that Asian countries are having difficulty obtaining divorce because of their culture. This allows the couple to put extra effort into reconciling the differences and making up for their mistakes to maintain a marriage.
10. Maldives
According to the study determining the highest and lowest divorce rates, the Maldives will have the highest divorce rate in the world in 2021 and also have the highest divorce rate of any country in history. The divorce rate is considered in the criteria for determining the least family-oriented. The divorce rate globally is influenced by the particular make-up of their legal system, culture, and economic viability. The divorce statistics show a world in flux, with cultural movements. This would lessen the significance for families. This implies that this factor contributes to the qualities of being family-oriented. Moreover, the results of the data were retrieved and considered to highlight the impact. Therefore, the Maldives is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
9. South Korea
It is unusual for South Korea to be included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world. South Korea is notable for its family culture and dynamics. Unfortunately, these changes, as a result of technological advancement and the demands of modern lifestyles, have a big impact on shaping the lives of many people. Particularly, the long working hours, demanding busy schedules, and allurement of digital distractions can erode the quality of time for sustaining good family relationships.
8. Germany
Germany is included in the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world as it is renowned as an individualistic country. The pace of life has knowingly contributed to its technological advancement. The technological advancements and demands of modern lifestyles have lessened the quality of time spent with their families. Furthermore, their teachings and upbringing encourage their children to act in liberation.
7. Australia
Australia, a country near Southeast Asia, is considered in the list of the 25 least-oriented countries in the world as it suggests that the Australian people have the ancestral heritage of Western societies. Western societies champion individualism, where personal aspirations and personal achievements are highly credited to themselves. The quality of being an individualistic culture led to the emphasis on personal success, career, and individual happiness. These traits led to the overshadowing of the importance of maintaining strong family connections.
6. France
Western societies appeared to be delicate compared to the robust relationships in Asia. The social dynamics contribute to this phenomenon referred to as individualistic culture. In France, children will be leaving their homes soon. The French children were taught to think and act independently by their parents or primary caregivers. An interesting fact that is unusual for family-oriented countries is that a newborn infant has a separate room to sleep in. This fact is practiced by other countries as well, especially in the Western area of the world. Therefore, France is one of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
5. Chile
Chile is considered to be one of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world. The reason doesn’t lie in its culture but in the recent changes in the difficulty of survival. The data collected by various researchers and experts claimed that Chile has a low score in all aspects or variables of the Raising a Family Index. Chile garnered a low score in all categories, including safety, happiness, cost, health, education, and time. Thus, Chilean citizens have difficulty establishing and raising a family, which has a great impact on the values of being family-oriented.
Pixabay/Public Domain
4. Mexico
Surprisingly, in Latin America, Mexico placed fourth as one of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world. History indicates that Mexico is a collectivist culture, but somehow it has changed these days. The recent claim was supported by the plasticity of a culture. The Mexican people changed their perspective on building a family, which has a big impact on the quality of being family-oriented. As it states, the difficulty of establishing a family. The difficulties experienced are the insufficient pay for paternity and maternity leave, which also includes the time spent, access to education and healthcare, and the overall cost of building a family.
Pixabay/Public Domain
3. United Kingdom
British families are relatively and traditionally small, only consisting of parents and children. Some countries or societies, especially in Southeast Asia, have a relationship with their extended family, such as living under the same roof and providing financial support to all cousins, siblings, etc. In recent years, the British family pattern has changed as fewer people are getting married. British people view it as unusual and rare for an extended family of three to four generations to live under the same roof. Additionally, British children live there with their parents until they complete their studies and leave after getting a job. Also, British children are not obligated to care for their aging parents. Thus, the United Kingdom is considered one of the 25 least-oriented countries in the world.
Copyright: stokkete / 123RF Stock Photo
2. Japan
There is no doubt that Japan is included in the list. Many view Japanese people as having strong bonds and links to their families, but this has changed. Societies around the globe perceive Japanese people as exceptionally competitive and accomplishment-oriented. Researchers stated that they are counted on to work extended hours. They also hold high and strong regard for their profession over their private lives, which is their family relationship. This reason makes it hard for the Japanese to sustain their family ties, and various references indicate their birth rates as being the lowest. This depicts the individualistic culture of society. The priority of an individual is more on self-interest and career growth. Additionally, Japanese people live independently after graduation. They work and study until they accomplish their goals. Therefore, family ties are weakened, and Japan makes it onto the second list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world.
Pixabay/Public Domain
1. United States of America
In the list of the 25 least family-oriented countries in the world, the United States of America ranks in first place. The USA has an individualist culture that places a deep and robust emphasis on personal freedom, independence, and self-expression. Possessing this individualistic characteristic can cause disputes or conflicts with their conventional family values. Research by scholars in the field of sociology and psychology states that the young generation nowadays is focused and motivated to follow their dreams, self-interest, and purpose in life. For this reason, they lose quality time to spend with their family. It also weakened their family ties and involved them in family-oriented movements.
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Disclosure: None. 25 Least Family-Oriented Countries in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
